Barred Arches
Common NameBarred Arches
Scientific NameAnania hortulata
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)31.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscream, brown
HabitatGardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, damp meadows, waste ground
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host PlantsUrtica dioica, Mentha, Eupatorium cannabinum
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various herbaceous plants, often nettles, mints, or hemp-agrimony. They pupate in a cocoon among leaves or in the soil, with one generation per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its creamy white or pale yellow wings with two broad, wavy, dark brown or black transverse bands on the forewings. The overall pattern is quite unique and easily recognizable.
Description
A medium-sized moth with creamy white or pale yellow forewings marked with two prominent, broad, wavy dark brown transverse bands and a dark discal spot. The hindwings are similar but paler with a single broad band.
